News

Reno sergeant in DUI case targeted in new police policy

THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

July 25, 2011 - 12:59 am

RENO -- A Reno police sergeant has been charged with driving under the influence in an incident in which authorities allege he drank beer at a June 3 party and crashed his motorcycle.

The Reno Gazette-Journal reported Sgt. Joe Burfield will be the first to be targeted in a new department policy designed to hold officers accountable, even for off-duty offenses.

The tough policy was implemented after at least five Reno police officers were arrested for drunken driving between 2000 and February 2010.

Burfield, 44, was seriously injured in the crash on the Pyramid Highway, and a test showed his blood-alcohol level was 0.14 percent, nearly twice the legal limit of 0.08 percent.

Police Chief Steven Pitts said Burfield faces a list of restrictions that include desk duty and counseling.

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